Energy-Saving AC Tips for Earth Day

Earth Day 2020 is on April 22. As it approaches, this is the perfect time to reevaluate our energy use, particularly as it applies to one of our homes’ biggest energy users: our air conditioners.

You can implement a few quick and easy tips to reduce energy use from your HVAC system:

1. Regularly replace your air filters.
2. Operate your system at ideal and stable temperatures.
3. Use programmable thermostats.
4. Make sure your ductwork is properly sealed.
5. Use other methods to help control temperatures.
6. Have your air conditioner inspected and maintained.

For more information and to arrange an appointment with one of our experienced HVAC technicians, call JD Service Now at 919-383-7000. We serve Durham and the surrounding areas, including Chapel Hill, Apex, Raleigh, and Cary.

6 Ways to Maximize Your AC Unit’s Energy Efficiency

Did you know that about 50% of the energy used by the average American home comes from its HVAC system? Improving the energy efficiency of your AC system can help the environment and your budget. It can also help keep your system in the best possible shape, which benefits your safety and comfort.

We recommend taking the following six steps to keep your air conditioner working efficiently:

• Regularly replace your air filters. You should change your air filters as frequently as the manufacturer suggests. This may be every month if you’re running your system a lot during the summer or winter months. Clogged filters make your system work harder, which can not only make it less efficient but can make it wear out earlier than it should. Your indoor air quality can also be negatively affected by clogged filters.
• Operate your system at ideal and stable temperatures. Every HVAC system has a specific temperature range where it operates at optimum efficiency. Talk to your HVAC technician or check out the owner’s manual on your system to find out where this is. Try to avoid constantly and drastically changing temperatures inside your home, which increases energy use and can strain your system.
• Use programmable thermostats. Programmable thermostats allow you to control the temperature in your home even when you’re not there. Instead of worrying about shutting off the AC before you leave for work and running the risk of wasting energy when you’re not home, use a programmable thermostat and keep your house at ideal temperatures at any time of the day or night.
• Make sure your ductwork is properly sealed. If there’s a leak in your ductwork, you can lose about a third of the airflow that’s supposed to be heating or cooling your home, affecting your comfort and energy use. It’s also a good idea to check your home for drafts—areas around doors or windows where outside air is coming in. Air leaks reduce the efficiency of any heating and cooling system. Ensure your ducts, doors, and windows are properly sealed to keep your system working efficiently.
• Use other methods to help control temperatures. You don’t have to rely on your HVAC system alone to heat or cool your home. You can use drapes, curtains, and blinds to let in the sun on colder days and block it on warmer ones. They also provide an extra layer of insulation on cold nights. Plus, you can make sure your home is properly insulated to keep ideal temperatures in and hot or cold temperatures out.
• Have your air conditioner inspected and maintained. Routine maintenance is one of the most important things you can do to keep your system running smoothly and at maximum energy efficiency. With every part of your system working right, it will do a better job cooling or heating your home. If an issue comes up, you can get it fixed before it becomes a major problem. You can rest assured that your HVAC system is working as it should.

Investing in an Environmentally Friendly System

If you have an old HVAC system that isn’t working properly, is always breaking down, or is sucking up too much energy, it may be time to consider getting a newer, more energy-efficient model. This is something that one of our heating and cooling technicians can talk to you about in person because there are so many variables at play. We’ll be honest and offer straightforward advice based on the latest HVAC technology, your budget, and your needs.

As Earth Day Approaches, Contact JD Service Now!

Earth Day is almost here, and it’s time to think about what you can do to protect the environment. Your HVAC system is a great place to start. At JD Service Now, we can offer helpful guidance on improving the efficiency of your heating and cooling system, your plumbing, appliances, and so much more.

For more information, see our blog on green plumbing and how it can help the environment and your pocketbook.

Call 919-383-7000 today to talk to a Durham HVAC technician about greener heating, cooling, and plumbing options for your home or business.